Configuration of Hearing Loss

The configuration or shape of the hearing loss refers to the extent of hearing loss at each frequency and the overall picture of hearing that is created. For example, a hearing loss that only affects the high frequencies would be described as a high frequency loss. Its configuration would show good hearing in the low frequencies and poor hearing in the high frequencies. On the other hand, if only the low frequencies are affected, the configuration would show poorer hearing for low tones and better hearing for high tones. Some hearing loss configurations are flat, indicating the same amount of hearing loss for low and high tones.

Other descriptors associated with hearing loss are:

• Bilateral vs. unilateral. Bilateral hearing loss means both ears are affected. Unilateral hearing loss means only one ear is affected.

• Symmetrical vs. aysmmetrical. Symmetrical hearing loss means that the degree and configuration of hearing loss are the same in each ear. An asymmetrical hearing loss is one in which the degree and/or configuration of the loss is different for each ear.

• Fluctuating vs. stable hearing loss. Some hearing losses change - sometimes getting better, sometimes getting worse. Such a change commonly occurs in young children who have hearing loss as a result of otitis media, or fluid in the middle ear. Other hearing losses will remain the same year after year and would be regarded as stable.

• Progressive vs. sudden hearing loss. Progressive hearing loss is a hearing loss that becomes increasingly worse over time. A sudden hearing loss is one that has an acute or rapid onset and therefore occurs quickly, perhaps as a result of head trauma, or perhaps a tumor in the auditory nerve.